Sammy Kuffour Denies Reports 'Filthy Rich' Michael Essien is Broke, Explains Assets Sale

• Samuel Osei Kuffour has refuted claims that Michael Essien is 'broke' after reports of the sale of his properties
• The former Ghana international has reportedly been ordered by an Accra court to auction two of his properties
• Kuffour and Essien were teammates during their days with the national team, playing together at the World Cup

Bayern Munich legend, Samuel Osei Kuffour has rejected reports claiming former Ghana teammate Michael Essien is broke.

The former Chelsea midfielder was in the news in Ghana after he was ordered to sell two of his properties by an Accra court's Deputy sheriff.

The news went viral with some reports suggesting the legendary Ghanaian footballer had gone bankrupt.

However, Kuffour explained that Essien is very rich and successful and the decision of the court had nothing to do with his financial status. The ex-AS Roman defender also quizzed the source of the news claiming it was not credible.

Kaizer Motaung: Kaizer Chiefs Chairman Delights Fans With Incredible Footballing Skills

Football

"To bring out the news and say Michael is broke is a shame. It is a shame that we think so negatively about our people. We should be positive; Michael is not broke. We are talking about a house that they took from him, which cost $20 million, and another one that costs $30 million,” Kuffour told Angel FM, as quoted by Pulse.

Kuffour insists the originators of the story should have done better by reaching out to Essien before publishing the story. He then disclosed that the 41-year-old has properties across the country after investing his earning from the game into various businesses.

"Nobody with a proper conscience will come out and say all kinds of things. You never spoke to the person; you never know exactly what the person is going through. So, how can you justify saying someone is broke?

Carlo Ancelotti appears to agree with Jose Mourinho about Italy's chances at Euro 2024

Football

“You would have to know if he comes to your house and begs for food, then you can justify it. I know the kind of assets that Michael has, and I will not stand anywhere and say Michael is broke. Michael is filthy rich.”

Kuffour, a member of Accra's affluent group, the East Legon Men's Executive Club, enjoyed an outstanding career with Germany's Bayern Munich, where he won several titles including the 2001 UEFA Champions League. He is fondly remembered for his heartbreaking moment after the defeat to Manchester United in the 1999 final.

Meanwhile, Essien currently works as assistant manager of Danish club FC Nordsjaelland, supervising the development of young talents from the Right to Dream Academy to the Super Liga side.

The 2012 UEFA Champions League winner retired from football in 2020 after spells across Europe with Chelsea, AC Milan, Real Madrid, Panathinaikos, and Sabail, per Transfermarkt.

France Legend Compares Kobbie Mainoo to Michael Essien, Advises Man United Star Ahead of Euro 2024

Football

Asamoah Gyan includes Essien in best XI

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Asamoah Gyan named Michael Essien in his best Ghana eleven.

Gyan spent almost two decades playing for the Black Stars, lining up with several players including Bayern Munich legend Samuel Osei Kuffour and former captain Stephen Appiah.

He also starred alongside the sons of the legendary Abedi Pele, Andre and Jordan Ayew.